Clutter signs draw fines

Hood River City Recorder Jean Hadley recently marred the paint on a phone booth outside of her office while peeling off an outdated political sign.

The taped message was one of dozens that had been posted around downtown blocks — and left for city employees to remove weeks later.

Bob Francis, city manager, has become so frustrated by the continuing problem that he is urging police officers to levy a $250 fine against violators. He said “snipe” signs — unofficial notices that are fastened to public property, such as trees, utility poles, trash cans, and traffic signs — make the city look “dirty, cluttered and unattractive.”

He said many of the signs taped, nailed or stapled up to advertise a garage sale or other event are primitively drawn on paper, cardboard and even paper plates. And most remain up long after the happening is over — or they are blown down by the wind to become trash along the street or sidewalk below.

“Hood River is recognized as one of the most beautiful communities anywhere in the country and snipe signs detract from our good image,” said Francis.

He is asking residents not only to cease posting illegal signs, but to remove any postings that they come across. Francis said people wanting to circulate a publication are provided with ample space on numerous community bulletin boards. For example, there is a message center in the foyer of city hall, the hallway of Oak Street Mall, the county library, the county administration building and most major retail outlets.

“Snipe signs are illegal and are no different than any other litter you see on the street. As a citizen or visitor to our community you have every right to pick up litter, whether it is lying on the ground or attached to public property,” Francis said.